
Independent book of the year regional and country finalist -British Book Awards 2026
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- Free Space Form | The Common Press
What's on Visit Us Glass House X Create Space Free space for community groups, creatives, charities & individuals Create Space is supporting Glass House, a queer intersectional bookshop, café, bar, and community space in bustling East London. Through Create Space you can now book The Commons for free, for your community meet up, events, podcast recording, gatherings, or anything else you might need a space for! This is space for the community, by the community. T&Cs apply. Free Space Application Form First Name & Surname Project Name or Organisation Email Website / Social Media Links Tell us about you or organisation and what would you like to use the space for? Please add any preferred dates and timesAdd answer here Sign Me Up Thanks for submitting. You will hear back within 10 days if you have been successful.
- Home | The Common Press
What's on Visit Us Welcome to The Common Press 1/3 The Common Press (known as Glass House), is an exciting new LGBTQIA+ multidisciplinary venue based in the heart of East London. Featuring an intersectional bookshop café, a large events space, and a podcast studio. We are a hub for a diverse range of communities, creatives, and projects. Our queer co-working space is coming soon! Check out our spaces: Common Counter Private Events Only The Common Press The Commons Upcoming events: To see all events, click here . Tigress with Wings – Book launch with Rupinder Kaur Waraich Wed 13 May The Common Press Bookshop More info RSVP Multiple Dates Polystation: An Open Discussion on Redefining Relationships Wed 27 May The Common Press More info RSVP Queer Herbal Medicine: Blind Tea Tasting Sun 31 May The Common Press Bookshop More info Buy Tickets Multiple Dates Queer Writer's Circle Wed 10 Jun London More info Buy Tickets Multiple Dates Bi+ Speed-Dating Sat 13 Jun The Common Press More info RSVP Queer Herbal Medicine: Blind Tea Tasting Sun 05 Jul The Common Press Bookshop More info Buy Tickets Book Launch - The Librarian’s Love Life Fri 01 May The Common Press Bookshop More info Details The Common Press Poetry Night w/ Zain Rishi & Friends Tue 28 Apr The Common Press Bookshop More info Details Before Us, Between Us: HIV Stories Across Generations Tue 21 Apr The Common Press Bookshop More info Details Queer Herbal Medicine: Blind Tea Tasting Sun 19 Apr The Common Press Bookshop More info Details Debut Book Launch: Bad Queer by Gayathiri Kamalakanthan Thu 26 Mar The Common Press More info Details Book Launch: the heart is a holding by Lateisha Davine Lovelace-Hanson Mon 23 Mar The Common Press Bookshop More info Details The Queerly Autistic Workbook: Book Launch Thu 19 Mar The Common Press Bookshop More info Details Queer Herbal Medicine: Herbs for trans health Sun 15 Mar The Common Press Bookshop More info Details People of Theatre Zine Launch - Theatre Fam Live Fri 13 Mar The Common Press Bookshop More info Details Multiple Dates Sound Bath for Wellbeing: An Evening of Radical Self-Love, Embodied Healing & Intentional Rest Wed 11 Mar The Common Press More info Details The Common Press Book Club: Here Comes the Sun hosted by Kiki Fakorede Thu 26 Feb The Common Press More info Details Launch of Ladyfister: The Sapphic Fisting Zine by Ruby Rare Tue 24 Feb The Common Press More info Details Load More Interested in running an event with us? We run a huge range of events across the site, including book launches, club nights, panel discussions, and private parties. We have multiple available spaces and both the staff and equipment to support your project - so get in touch! Private Hire
- Privacy Policy | The Common Press
The Common Press Privacy Policy Our contact details Name: The Common Press CIC Address: 118 Bethnal Green Road, London, E2 6DG E-mail: books@commonpress.co.uk The type of personal information we collect We currently collect and process the following information: Personal identifiers, contacts and characteristics (for example, name and contact details) How we get the personal information and why we have it Most of the personal information we process is provided to us directly by you for one of the following reasons: To contact a member of our team To arrange an event with us To arrange a consultation for our book subscriptions We use the information that you have given us in order to contact you about your enquiry, and to fulfil book subscriptions. We will not share your information with third parties without your permission. Under the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR), the lawful bases we rely on for processing this information are: (a) Your consent. You are able to remove your consent at any time. You can do this by contacting us through the contact page on this website. (b) We have a legitimate interest. How we store your personal information Your information is securely stored. We keep all information for two years from your last point of contact. We will then dispose your information. Your data protection rights Under data protection law, you have rights including: Your right of access - You have the right to ask us for copies of your personal information. Your right to rectification - You have the right to ask us to rectify personal information you think is inaccurate. You also have the right to ask us to complete information you think is incomplete. Your right to erasure - You have the right to ask us to erase your personal information in certain circumstances. Your right to restriction of processing - You have the right to ask us to restrict the processing of your personal information in certain circumstances. Your right to object to processing - You have the the right to object to the processing of your personal information in certain circumstances. Your right to data portability - You have the right to ask that we transfer the personal information you gave us to another organisation, or to you, in certain circumstances. You are not required to pay any charge for exercising your rights. If you make a request, we have one month to respond to you. Please contact us via books@commonpress.co.uk to make a request. How to complain If you have any concerns about our use of your personal information, you can make a complaint to us, either by writing to us at: The Common Press 118 Bethnal Green Road London E2 6DG Or by using the contact form on this website. You can also complain to the ICO if you are unhappy with how we have used your data. The ICO’s address: Information Commissioner’s Office Wycliffe House Water Lane Wilmslow Cheshire SK9 5AF Helpline number: 0303 123 1113 ICO website: https://www.ico.org.uk This policy is effective from the 23rd of May 2022.
- Podcast Studio | The Common Press
Our downstairs events space is currently under construction and not available. Our downstairs space room is lightly soundproofed, and as before comes fully equipped - all you need to do is hit the big red 'record' button. We host podcasting sessions on throughout the week , during our opening hours between 11 am - 6 pm Tuesday- Sunday . To book a session, please email books@commonpress.co.uk with your preferred date and time. You must bring a laptop to your booking to collect your files with. Payment for podcasting is made in the bookshop immediately after your session, by credit or debit card. The cost is £30 per hour for up to four people. RAISE YOUR VOICE!
- Memberships | The Common Press
The Common Press was established in 2021 to be a place for storytelling, culture, and community. Our membership program is an invitation to come together to help us write the next chapter of the Common Press. By becoming a Common member, you not only contribute to the longevity of this essential queer venue but also gain exclusive access to curated content, special events, giveaways, and the joy of being part of a community that champions the voices and stories that make us who we are. Books are our love language Become a member of The Common Press Sign Up Membership Tiers Support your favourite queer bookshop and help us write the next chapter of The Common Press. That warm fuzzy feeling you get when you know you’re supporting something that matters Auto entry into monthly giveaways One free coffee per month £15 The Common Press Book of the Month delivered to your door. Invitation to our online book club Exclusive online discount codes 5% off on all hot drinks £50 £25 A welcome tote bag! Our Common Press Book of the Month delivered to your door. Early bird access to event tickets 25% discount on selected in-house event tickets Invites to exclusive membership parties Access to allocated member’s tickets for self care, creative, & social workshops Member’s discount on selected titles online and in store 5% off all non-alcoholic drinks Explore All Tiers Friends & Allies £5 Friends with Benefits Anchor Partner Suga Zaddy All of the above event rewards! Bespoke read of the month delivered to your door - personally tailored just for you! A monthly treat from our favourite queer artists and makers Surprise gifts throughout the year Pay-it-forward : your generous monthly donation will allow us to send one of our Friends & Allies the Common Press Book of the Month every month
- Jobs | The Common Press
Job Vacancies - CLOSED Applications for Events Manager and Bookseller are now closed. Unfortunately, we are unable to respond to every candidate, if you don't hear from us by 29th November 2024, it is unlikely you have not been selected this time around. Events Manager We are seeking a part-time, seasonal Events Manager to support our busy schedule. This is a temporary position, working 3-4 days per week until February 2025, with the possibility of an extension. The ideal candidate will be highly organized, with 3-5 years of experience in event management or operations. This role requires both remote and in-person work. You will be responsible for the overall planning, coordination, and execution of events, ensuring they run smoothly and meet both client and organizational expectations. Events must align with our organization's values and target audience. We are looking for someone who is comfortable engaging with a wide range of people and can demonstrate a high degree of professionalism. Many of our events take place in the evening, so the ability to work late is essential. Candidates with previous experience in event hosting, strong communication skills, and a background in event management or administrative work will be highly valued. You will report to the management team. Key Responsibilities: Developing event concepts, timelines, and schedules. Booking and programming events and assisting with events setup and pack down. Tracking expenses and ensuring cost-effective events. Building partnerships with external venues. Overseeing event marketing strategies, including coordinating with the Social Media Manager, writing newsletters, and maintaining relationships with partners and organizations. Ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations. Analyzing event successes and failures, providing feedback for improvement and future development. Candidate Requirements: Previous experience working at night and events. Strong interpersonal skills. Excellent multitasking abilities and organizational skills. Attention to detail. Confidence in interacting with the public and staff members. Proficiency with Microsoft Office suite. Applicants selected for an interview will be contacted via email. Due to the anticipated volume of applications, we regret that only those shortlisted will be contacted. £27,000-30,000 pro rata Application closes on Thursday 7th November 2024 at 11:59 pm If you have any questions: please email: gm@commonpress.co.uk £27,000 - £30,000 pro rata (up to 4 days per week) Apply Now Weekend Bookseller £13.15p/hour We’re looking for a bookseller to join our team. This is a seasonal, part-time weekend position, currently planned until February 2025, with the possibility of an extension. The ideal candidate will have a strong interest in a diverse range of queer literature that champions LGBTQIA+ authors, Black and POC writers, the global majority, and disabled people. They must also be comfortable working with a diverse range of colleagues and customers. Responsibilities include proactively engaging with customers on the shop floor, recommending books, checking in, and shelving new stock. The role requires supporting our busy events schedule, which includes regular evening events. Standard working hours will include some evening shifts. Additionally, booksellers will be expected to assist in serving drinks, while barista skills are a plus, they are not essential. The bookshop is often very busy, so the successful candidate must be comfortable in a dynamic and active working environment. Previous bookselling experience is highly valued but not essential. Bookselling training will be provided, including barista training. The Common Press pays the London Living Wage. Applicants will be invited to interview by email. Due to the anticipated volume of applications, we regret that only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Candidates who pass the interview stage will be offered a paid trial shift to assess how they interact with customers, regardless of the outcome. Application closes on Thursday 7th November 2024 at 11:59 pm If you have any questions: please email: gm@commonpress.co.uk Apply Now
- The Common Press | Queer bookshop | The Common Press Bookshop, 118 Bethnal Green Road, London, UK
We are more than a bookshop . T he Common Press is Londo n's queer intersectional Bookshop café & Event s space. April The Common Press CIC is a not-for-profit queer bookshop café that means a lot of things to the community. As London's first consciously queer intersectional bookshop and events space, we provide a sanctuary and third space for literature, culture and for our LGBTQIA+ community to exist both during the day and at night in social settings. We are a radical and independent space that stands up for what we believe in and champions books by underrepresented authors and those from the Global majority. We host a diverse range of events every day, including dance classes, yoga sessions, book clubs, family-friendly events, book launches, workshops, and parties. Whether you're looking for the latest novels by your favourite gay, lesbian, queer, trans, and non-binary authors; seminal works of Black history; fourth-wave feminist theory; or that niche book on disability activism, we either have it or know how to get it fast. It's not just novels and theory, we also stock poetry, plays, graphic novels, and a great collection of books for children and young adults. And if, after all that browsing, you're feeling a bit tired, we make a pretty great coffee and cuppa as well. Book of the Month Looking for a Gift? Choose Here Sign up now Upcoming Events! If you'd like to see our upcoming events in a calendar format, you can click here . We also post monthly summaries of upcoming events to our instagram! 13/05/26 May Wednesday Tigress with Wings – Book launch with Ru... 18:00 - 20:00 Button 27/05/26 May Wednesday Polystation: An Open Discussion on Redef... 18:00 - 20:00 Button 31/05/26 May Sunday Queer Herbal Medicine: Blind Tea Tasting... 17:00 - 20:00 Button 10/06/26 Jun Wednesday Queer Writer's Circle 18:00 - 20:00 Button 13/06/26 Jun Saturday Bi+ Speed-Dating 18:00 - 22:00 Button 24/06/26 Jun Wednesday Polystation: An Open Discussion on Redef... 18:00 - 20:00 Button See More EVENTS Interested in running an event with us? We run a huge range of events across the site, including book launches, club nights, panel discussions, and private parties. Please get in touch to discuss! Private Hire Read More
- About Us, and FAQs | The Common Press
About us (and FAQs). Opened in 2021, The Common Press used to be known as Glass House. We are a Community Interest Company (CIC)as of July 2024. The Common Press is a consciously intersectional bookshop and café celebrating writing by queer people and people of colour. Since launching we've gone from strength to strength, receiving warm reviews in National media and collaborating with an amazing range of performers, musicians, artists, and writers to create a space which serves marginalised communities across all of London. Above all, we've been welcomed by so many people here in Shoreditch who have made the site a second home, and we couldn't be more grateful for their support. If you have any questions about the project, you can get in touch with us here - or scroll down, we might have answered them below! FAQs: What are your opening times? The bookshop is open Tuesday - Sunday from 11 am to 6: 30pm. We are open from 7pm until late for a range of events and private hire. Sadly our events space is currently under construction and not available. Can I run an event with you? Absolutely! We run a huge range of events: book launches, club nights, private parties, burlesque lessons - you name it! You can find out more about working with us here. Is The Common Press wheelchair accessible? The Common Press bookshop is entirely wheelchair accessible and also has accessible toilets. Unfortunately, the events space is in the basement and is not currently wheelchair accessible. We are actively exploring solutions for this. A lot of our events take place in the bookshop if you aren't sure whether an event is wheelchair accessible, drop us an email. Is The Common Press dog friendly? Yes. Both service animals and pets are welcome throughout the site. I have published a book. Can you stock it? The Common Press stocks a lot of books from small and independent presses and self-published authors. All stocking decisions are at the discretion of the manager - please get in touch using the contact form , and include as much information about your book as possible. I would like to work at The Common Press. Do you have any vacancies? We aren't able to update this page with openings in real time - it's a good idea to keep an eye on our instagram page where we usually post about hiring, or send us an email with a cover letter and CV attached. We don't always have time to respond to unsolicited emails, so if you don't hear back from us within two weeks unfortunately we don't have a suitable position for you at this time, but your CV will be kept on file in case one opens for as long as data protection permits.
- Event Terms | The Common Press
Terms and Conditions for Event Organisers Thank you for coordinating an event with The Common Press! We're thrilled about our collaboration and the opportunity to bring your vision to life. Hosting an event or session at The Common Press is always a joy for both attendees and organizers. The safety and security of our staff and customers are our top priorities, and by hosting an event with us, you agree to the following terms, conditions, and cancellation policy. By hosting an event, session, workshop, or movement class at The Common Press, you agree to the following terms and conditions: Organiser Responsibilities In advance of my event, I agree and confirm: I will arrive at least 1 hour (recommended) or 30 minutes before my event start times to do any setup required. I understand it is my responsibility to provide the number of guests attending the event at least 48 hours in advance and provide any tech or setup requirements no later than 72 hours before my event. If I fail to provide relevant information or details in advance I understand that whilst staff will try to accommodate changes, it is not guaranteed that changes will be made on the day. I understand that running my event on the day is my responsibility and staff members are only able to assist with book sales, providing beverages, and assisting with basic tech support as I understand they are not sound technicians. For live music events, cabaret, and any event with performers, I will pay for a sound technician (agreed by staff) or have people available to support the night. I am responsible for checking and welcoming my guests as well as starting and ending my event or session on time. Myself and all other external organizers associated with my event will treat both the staff and customers of The Common Press with respect and courtesy. Myself and all other external organizers associated with my event will treat the premises with appropriate care and will not damage the premises or its equipment. Any necessary tech support will be provided by a member of the staff. I will pay the agreed hire fee + VAT at least 1 week before my event or session unless a prior agreement has been made with the management team. If you require a longer payment date, please inform us. Prohibited Items I understand that the following items are prohibited throughout The Common Press, and I will not bring them onto the site: Open flames, candles, and incense sticks. Fog machines, misters, or any equipment with the potential to trigger standard fire alarms. Recreational drugs. Blades and other items that could be used as offensive weapons. Alcohol unless agreed upon by prior arrangement with the management. Equipment and Liability I guarantee that any electrical equipment brought onto the premises is safe to use, and The Common Press will not be held liable for unsafe equipment. I understand that if the terms of this agreement are broken, my event may be canceled, and event organizers asked to leave. I will still be required to pay any agreed hire fees or similar. I also understand that I may be liable for the cost of repairs if any damages occur as a result of my event. Cleanliness / Tidying up As the organizer, I will not leave the premises in an unclean or messy condition. I will take away and remove all the items I brought in and I will dispose of rubbish in the bins provided. The Common Press is not liable for any property left on-site or unattended. I understand that if any part of the site is left in an inappropriate condition, this will be documented, and there will be a cleaning charge of at least £100. Safety My guests and I will pay attention to any communication from staff during my event and will respond appropriately. In the unlikely event of an emergency, my guests and I will follow staff instructions and evacuate the premises according to their directions. Time Management I understand that events are booked in allocated hourly slots, and if my event overruns, this can impact other customers. If I anticipate my event will overrun, I will find a member of staff and check whether this can be accommodated. If I fail to do this, The Common Press will charge a late fee of 1.5x the hourly rate for each hour my event runs over. I further understand that The Common Press closes at 10 pm unless otherwise stated, and if my event goes past 10 pm, The Common Press will add a non-negotiable fee of £20 for every 10 minutes added to my booking. Marketing and Media Use I understand that it is my responsibility to provide any event poster and ticket links to The Common Press to assist with social media promotion as soon as possible and no later than 10 days before my event. I am aware The Common Press is not responsible for marketing by event, and I will tag the relevant social media channels for reposts. I understand it is not guaranteed that my event will be shared on the grid. I am aware that The Common Press may take photographs or videos of the event happening, and these may be used on social media to promote the event and the venue. I agree that if I do not want the use of any media, I will confirm in writing. I will also notify The Common Press team if any guests do not want their photos or videos taken. Ethical Partnership & Shared Values Policy At our event space, we are committed to fostering respectful, transparent, and mutually supportive relationships with all partners, collaborators, and guests. We believe that successful events are built on trust, clear communication, and shared values. In light of the ongoing situation in Palestine, which the United Nations has described as a genocide, we want to ensure that our values are aligned with those of the individuals and organisations we work with. Our intention in asking is to make sure that our work and partnerships reflect shared commitments to anti-apartheid, anti-colonialism, anti-zionism, anti-fascism, justice, liberation, and compassion. As part of this commitment, we ask all partners to uphold the following principles when working with us : Respect & Inclusivity: Treat all team members, guests, and collaborators with respect. We maintain an inclusive environment that welcomes diverse identities, backgrounds, and experiences. Integrity & Transparency: Communicate openly, honestly, and promptly regarding event needs, expectations, and any changes that may arise. Sustainability & Responsibility: Work with us to reduce environmental impact, support ethical sourcing, and care for the space and surrounding community. Collaboration & Accountability: Approach challenges cooperatively and take responsibility for decisions, actions, and use of the venue. Wellbeing & Safety: Support a safe and healthy environment by following all relevant health, safety, and safeguarding guidelines. Cancellation and Rescheduling Policies I acknowledge that if I cancel my event within 7 days of its planned date, there will be no refund, but alternative dates to reschedule within 6 months will be offered. I will have to pay the hire fee for canceling if I do not want to reschedule the event. We reserve the right to withdraw from or cancel an event should organisers or partners fail to align with our shared values and ethical principles. I confirm that i have read and understand all the terms and conditions above and by also booking an event or session at The Common Press i have agreed to the terms.
- The Commons | The Common Press
The Commons Events Space Our fully equiped events space has played host to an incredible range of activities - and if you've got an idea, we'd like yours to be the next one. The Space The Commons features a modular stage, surround-sound speakers, a complete theatre lighting system, mics, a mirrored wall, and a large projector screen. It can hold up to 70 people (60 seated), and has hosted everything from yoga to life drawing classes to book launches to album debuts. We can prepare the space for a huge range of requirements and get it just right for whatever you have in mind. You can download the specifications of the space, with a guide list of pricing options, below. Book Now Gallery Just to give you some ideas...
- MENU | The Common Press
Common Counter Drinks Menu Menu Top Click here to download a PDF of this menu. Click here to return to the top of the page.
